South End Citizen 6-7-2023

PepsiCo Chicago will pilot a reverse mentorship program this summer for young people from the South and West sides. PHOTO BY PEPSICO.

goal of the reverse mentorship program from PepsiCo is to build a more equitable workforce for the next generation. PHOTO BY PEPSICO.

CLASSES BEGIN AT NEW GREEN JOB TRAINING CENTER IN CHICAGO

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- The Sustainability Hub, a new Chicago job training center jointly developed by Power52’s Ecademy and 548 Enterprise (548), has proudly welcomed the first twenty trainees to its clean energy job training program.

With funding from Summit Ridge Energy (SRE), the Sustainability Hub is providing comprehensive job training and employment opportunities to local Illinois job seekers eager to start a career in the clean energy economy. Over the next ten years, the program will train 10,000+ residents, focusing on Veterans, Returning Citizens and high school educated residents from underserved communities.

Located in the West Side of Chicago, the Sustainability Hub will provide trainees with the skills needed to thrive in Illinois’ expanding solar industry. The participants will graduate from the program with solar technician certification and knowledge of how to design, construct, operate and maintain solar energy projects. The program also covers life skills such as conflict resolution and financial literacy, as well as basic construction skills like using power tools, soldering and pipe bending.

After completing the program, graduates will have the opportunity to participate in on-the-job training at solar projects located across Illinois, including more than 100 rooftop projects located in inner-city Chicago developed and owned by SRE, as well as projects developed by 548.

Ecademy, a Power52 Company, prepares individuals for a career in the Renewable Energy industry.

For more information visit https://power52.org.

Cook County to Consider Cracking Down on ICE Data Purchasing

Reverse Mentorship Program Pilot to Take Place This Summer

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

The program is a paid internship program for young people ages 16 to 24 years old. Mentors and mentees will build meaningful relationships, develop leadership skills and receive leadership training. The reverse mentorship aspect is meant to develop mutual growth and development, where mentors can also learn from the younger program participants.

The guidance of Chicago Cares was instrumental in the program’s development. Its mission is to mobilize volunteers to build a stronger, more unified Chicago. PepsiCo has been a longstanding partner with Chicago Cares in doing the work engaging in community-driven service. Chicago Cares helped facilitate the development of PepsiCo’s Pathways to Readiness and Empowerment Program (PREP) in 2021.

“We know Chicago Cares has trusted relationships across the city, so it was really important to tap into their knowledge and expertise as we created this program. We wanted to be really thoughtful about the work we created and Chicago Cares was really supportive in leading us through that journey,” said Brittany Wilson, Community Manager at PepsiCo.

“All young people no matter their race, ethnicity or background, deserve equal access to learning, training, work experience and professional networks,” 20th Alderwoman Jeanette Taylor said in a release. “Lack of access to opportunities that build career skills could result in young people being left behind and may even lead to high rates of youth unemployment or violence as we have seen too many times. It is all connected, and we need to invest in them — Chicago’s young people, the FUTURE of our great city — on the front end.”

Gray Matter Experience, North Lawndale Community Coordinating Council, Big Brothers Big Sisters, After School Matters, Teamwork Englewood and Southwest Organizing Project also were involved in designing this program. “True service is community driven. We want to follow the community’s plans and strategies. We want to center the voices of those most directly impacted by the problems, acknowledging that they’re also closest to the solutions,” said Ellen Ray, CEO of Chicago Cares.

CHICAGO – Mijente announced the introduction of a new amendment to Cook County’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer ordinance that would limit the disclosure of personal information to immigration agents. The amendment, introduced by Commissioner Alma E. Anaya (7th District), would bring accountability to the unchecked data broker industry and protect Cook County residents’ personal information from being shared with ICE.

Private-sector data brokers, such as LexisNexis, provide access to data points on over 276 million U.S. residents that include highly sensitive personal information from financial records, property records, motor vehicle records, criminal records, cell phone data, addresses, and more. Under its $22.1 million contract, ICE has used the LexisNexis database to conduct millions of searches nationwide and target people for deportation. In 2021 alone, ICE’s Chicago Field Office made over 13,000 searches during a seven month period. The new amendment builds on last year’s first-of-its-kind hearing by Cook County commissioners, which investigated LexisNexis’ irresponsible sale of sensitive personal data and marks a new chapter in the ongoing investigation into ICE’s violation of regional sanctuary protections.

Chicago’s sanctuary record reaches as far back as 1982, and both city and Cook County officials have passed ordinances asserting their ability to reject federal authorities’ detention requests and to prevent police from holding people based only on their suspected immigration status. ICE uses its contracts with data brokers to obtain critical personal data – including highly sensitive information, like home addresses, location data, and physical characteristics – to circumvent Chicago’s Sanctuary City status, which guarantees that the City will not detain residents for ICE or otherwise assist in immigration enforcement.

The advocates anticipate a formal vote by the Cook County Board of Commissioners to vote on the amendment next month.

One aspect of the program’s development is that young people from the community were given the opportunity to provide input as to what they wanted included in the program. Wilson believes it is important to have the involvement of the young people who will be impacted. Chicago Cares introduced PepsiCo to young people from Englewood, North Lawndale and Chicago Lawn. Those young people are aware of what is going on in their communities and were able to speak to what they really wanted to see in a program. The goal is to create programs that are relevant to those young people’s needs.

Ray added that not only was it important to have the community involved, but also have the young people’s input, because it informs where the resources are placed, how time is invested and where the energy is put. The goal is to meet people’s true needs, not act on what they think people need. Ray said the young people involved brought a lot of valuable wisdom and experience to the process.

One of the things Chicago Cares and PepsiCo heard from the young people is that the program needed to be reciprocal and mutual. The young people have something to offer and want to be honored for the leadership, voice and expertise they bring. They also want consistent opportunities, as well as exposure to new careers and to be able to gain skills and credentials that will help them along their career path. For more information about PepsiCo, visit www.pepsico.com.

Harper Passes Bill to Address SNAP Benefit Theft

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A bill by state Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, aimed at addressing the theft of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, is headed to the governor’s desk after unanimously passing both houses of the General Assembly.

“That protecting the most vulnerable people and families in our state is critically important should go without saying,” Harper said. “Sadly, theft of SNAP benefits that can deprive needy families, including children, of their access to proper nutrition have been a persistent and increasing problem. It’s past time that something was done.”

SNAP benefits are also sometimes referred to as “food stamps”. In recent years, food stamps have been issued to recipients using a debit-card system where benefits are loaded onto the recipient’s card. Thieves have targeted food stamp recipients by using devices (called “skimmers”) that are covertly inserted into payment machines at food retailers to steal card information, or devices that can need only be held near a victim’s wallet in order to remotely copy the information necessary to make a “clone” of the victim’s benefit card which the thief can then use. This type of benefits theft has been on the rise, and authorities have struggled to address it.

Victims of SNAP theft generally do not have their benefits replaced, meaning that recipients whose benefits are stolen often end up struggling to buy food until their next installment.

Harper’s House Bill 2214 would require the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) to track and collect data as to the scope and frequency of SNAP benefits fraud, especially when it occurs by means of skimming or cloning. Beginning in 2024, IDHS would be required to report its findings to the General Assembly quarterly.

Harper’s original bill included a requirement that IDHS replace victims’ stolen benefits, but this measure was removed by a Senate amendment.

“This legislation represents a solid first step in addressing this pressing issue. Going forward, it will be necessary to do more to make victims of SNAP benefits theft whole again,” Harper said. “Nevertheless, IDHS as well as my fellow lawmakers and I can now look forward to having much more robust information about this problem and how and where it is occurring, which is sure to help us craft smart policies to address it.”

Harper’s office is reachable at 773-925-6580 or repsonyaharper@gmail.com.

A NEW AMENDMENT WOULD DRAMATICALLY LIMIT THE AGENCY’S ABILITY TO SEPARATE IMMIGRANT FAMILIES

Chicago Public Schools Celebrates the Class of 2023

CHICAGO – Chicago Public Schools (CPS) high school graduates began moving tassels to the left and tossing mortarboards in the air this past weekend amid the bittersweet sound of Pomp and Circumstance in auditoriums and other local venues across the city. The Class of 2023 - who were all freshmen during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic - have earned nearly $1 billion in college scholarships and garnered thousands of state and national honors and academic distinctions. The ceremonies and celebrations will continue through mid-June for thousands of CPS graduates with a final tally to be available in the fall. Last year, 21,205 students graduated from CPS, with the District graduation rate increasing 2.7 percentage points to 82.9 percent.

With high school diplomas - and often college credits - already attained, CPS graduates are moving on to attend higher education powerhouses like Stanford, Harvard, Michigan, North Carolina A&T, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Eastern Kentucky and institutions around the world. Some will stay closer to home with plans to attend a City Colleges of Chicago campus, University of Chicago, Northwestern University or the University of Illinois at Chicago campus among others. Still, others will continue their training and apprenticeship programs in the culinary arts, cosmetology, automotive, construction and other skilled trades.

“Every day, our students show our city that they are talented, hardworking and engaged and I am excited to watch this year’s graduating class continue to grow into the teachers, engineers, writers and leaders of tomorrow,” said CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. “I am incredibly proud of our 2023 graduating class and offer them my sincere congratulations on their outstanding achievements. I also extend my deepest thanks to the incredible teachers, school leaders and family members who supported them in their achievement.”

This year’s graduating class includes Englewood STEM High School’s first cohort of graduates, with nearly 50 percent of Englewood seniors earning college credit and five earning associate degrees.

Seal of Biliteracy

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SOUTH END Washington Heights,Roseland,Rosemoor, Englewood,West Englewood, Auburn-Gresham, Morgan Park, Maple Park, Mt. Vernon, Fernwood, Bellevue, Beverly, Pullman, West Pullman, West Pullman,Riverdale, Jeffrey Manor and Hegewisch.

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Citizen Newspaper Group Inc., (CNGII), Publisher of the ChathamSoutheast,South End, ChicagoWeekend,South Suburban

More than 2,400 students earned the Illinois Seal of Biliteracy this year –a 25 percent increase from 2022. The Seal of Biliteracy is given to students who have attained proficiency in two more languages before their high school graduation. Students from 87 District schools earned a Seal of Biliteracy this year in 34 total languages, including American Sign Language (ASL), Hebrew, Mandarin and Turkish, with Spanish being the most common Seal language.

This increase reflects the District’s intentional investment in bilingual and dual-language programs, with the FY2023 budget providing $3 million in new funding for additional bilingual teachers and dual-language program coordinators, as well as the formation of bilingual advisory councils. Dual language programming provides instruction in both English and Spanish, ensuring students are biliterate and bilingual in both languages.

Industry Credentials

CPS graduates earned industry certifications in healthcare and various trades this year which can help them earn a living post high school while

ELIZABETH “LIZZIE G” ELIE

they pursue additional education. This year, 20 CPS students will pursue paid trainee positions with the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) 399 to complete the IUOE Trainee program as operating engineers with the support of a highly-skilled JLL mentor. After completion of the program, the trainees will have earned an associate degree and have the option to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a reduced cost, and students will be eligible to apply for work at CPS, which can ultimately open the door to job opportunities throughout the U.S. and globally. This year’s students come from Senn, Kelly, Curie, Peace & Education Coalition, Back of the Yards, Richards, CVCA and Bogan high schools.

Early College Attainment

CPS students also made great strides in early college attainment. This year, more than 5,000 CPS students earned college credits before graduation, with over 600 of those students earning at least 15 credits – a 32 percent increase from last year. Students of color saw significant gains, with a 100 percent increase for Black male students, from 37 in 2022 to 74 in 2023, and a nearly 56 percent increase for Hispanic male students, up from 76 in 2022 to 119 in 2023. Students who earned college credits did so either through the District’s partnership with City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) or through DeVry Unity Advantage Academy High School’s associate degree program. More than 120 CPS students earned an associate degree through these two programs.

The number of District students who sat for the May 2023 International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma program exams increased to 884, up from 770 in 2022. IB students who earn a score of a 4 or higher on IB exams may receive college credit. All public postsecondary institutions in Illinois, including all City Colleges of Chicago, award college credit for passing scores on IB exams.

Nationally-Recognized Scholars

Five of this year’s graduating class have also been awarded the prestigious Gates Scholarship for their exemplary work in leadership, perseverance and academic excellence. Paul Adekola of Air Force Academy High School, Alanah Martin of Kenwood Academy, Kevin Reyes Vega of Chicago Military Academy and Jaylen Brown and Sammi Yee of Whitney Young High School will attend prestigious colleges next year with the support of the Gates Foundation full-tuition scholarship.

Learn more about CPS at www. cps.edu.

LIGHTFORD ENCOURAGES ILLINOIS TO CELEBRATE JUNETEENTH

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly

A. Lightford championed legislation in 2021 to ensure that the people of Illinois understood that Black history is American history. This year she is building upon that monumental measure by encouraging people to celebrate Juneteenth and reminding them of the reason for the holiday.

“Juneteenth being a state holiday reminds us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for Black Americans,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “This day gives everyone an opportunity to celebrate Black culture, Black achievements, and learn more about Black history.”

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which established that all enslaved people in Confederate states were forever free. However, it was not until two years later in June of 1865 that federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to enforce the proclamation freeing the last of slaves in the United States.

In 2021, Lightford championed House Bill 3922, which established June 19 as a state holiday for Juneteenth National Freedom Day. It is now a paid day off holiday for all state employees and a school holiday.

Today, Juneteenth has grown from the celebration of the abolition of slavery into a celebration of Black arts, culture, and the impacts of the civil rights movement throughout the country.

“The struggle for our people to achieve full equity in Illinois and across the nation continues still to this day,” Lightford said. “Juneteenth recognizes our accomplishments, our achievements, our culture, and reminds us that our fight is not over.”

SEN. BELT & REP. HOFFMAN: BUDGET ENSURES FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND OPPORTUNITY FOR THE METRO EAST

SPRINGFIELD

– Continuing their work to uplift families across the Metro East, State Senator Christopher Belt and State Representative Jay Hoffman supported a financially responsible state budget plan that provides services for those who need it most and makes crucial investments for the next generation.

“I made sure the Metro East was not forgotten in the budget process. I wanted to ensure that the municipalities that comprise the 57th District received their fair share,” said Belt (D-Swansea) “That’s why there is a $15 million allocation for Veterans Property Tax Relief Reimbursement Pilot Program, which will reimburse St. Clair County for every property tax deduction, exemption and freeze they provide for our veterans.”

Belt, Chair of the Senate Appropriations - Public Safety & Infrastructure committee and Vice-Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee was deeply involved in budget negotiations for the Senate. He was proud to support a budget gives the Metro East’s infrastructure and education institutions the funding it needs.

“I also wanted to make sure that students in the area receive the same opportunities that students in Chicago and suburbs get,” said Belt. “The budget includes a $350 million in new funding toward the evidence-based funding model for K-12 education and increases needbased tuition assistance by $100 million – to a total of $701 million, which will help keep property taxes from rising and ensure that our students have access to great schools.”

This increased funding allows nearly all community college students at or below median income levels to have their tuition and fees covered through MAP and Pell Grants, which is good for Southwestern Illinois College and surrounding communities.

“This is a responsible and compassionate state budget that prioritizes investment in the issues families are facing,” Hoffman said. “We’re dedicating significant resources for our public safety efforts, while also increasing funding for childcare and early childhood education. If we want to build a stronger Illinois, we need to support the next generation and ensure that every individual in the Metro East has an opportunity to succeed. I appreciate the advocacy from Sen. Belt, Rep. Katie Stuart and all of the local leaders who used their voice to help put together a strong budget that will help our community.”

Once signed into law, the FY 24 Budget will take effect July 1.

UNCF Launches Expansion of Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship to Help HBCU Students Pursue Business Ownership

(Black PR Wire) Entrepreneurship and innovation are the ways forward to growing wealth in the Black and other communities of color and to advance the progress of the nation.

With that focus, UNCF (United Negro College Fund), the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization, announced the expanded development of its Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) to support students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and other institutions to pursue and fulfill their entrepreneurial dreams.

“The center’s ongoing mission is to develop the next generation of talented BIPOC entrepreneurs and innovators to create impactful business and design solutions to address society’s greatest challenges,” said Larry Griffith, UNCF senior vice president, programs and student services.

“We are committed to creating opportunities for synergy and collaboration among Black and other students of color and educators, institutions and partners to establish and grow wealth and increase social impact within communities of color. As more college students and graduates of diverse backgrounds pursue interests in business ownership and entrepreneurship, the UNCF Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is designed to help facilitate their interests and achieve success in their economic and social impact endeavors,” said Griffith.

A social entrepreneur is a person who explores business opportunities that have a positive impact on their community and society in general. Social entrepreneurship will be an important part of the work of the center. It’s the process by which individuals, startups and entrepreneurs develop and fund solutions that directly address social issues.

The center’s objectives are to build, grow, support and nurture partner ventures through a multi-prong approach of education, development, mentoring and

financial support through scholarships, grants and business funding for innovators and entrepreneurs.

The center will:

Build a dynamic community of entrepreneurs and innovators

Administer business and social entrepreneurship and innovation-focused scholarship programs

between 1996 and 2010. This generation’s identity has been molded by the digital age, climate anxiety, a shifting financial landscape, greater awareness of social equity and personal identity and the impact of COVID-19. Gen Z is currently the second-youngest generation, with millennials before and Generation Alpha after.

According to Forbes magazine, “Over 10% of Gen Z students recently polled have expressed interest in starting or developing their own business in the next six months. This generation brings creativity and a fresh perspective to the table—a table that now has open seats for those embracing this new world of work. This doesn’t always mean college or even trade school. What once seemed like the only path now has been divided up into many. They’re keen on making money to support themselves and entrepreneurship is a way to do that.”

“It’s also clear that Gen-Z is eager to carve a work path outside of the only historical option: a corporate 9-5. Instead, they want balance, fulfillment and to be extremely passionate about the work behind their paychecks. One way they are considering taking charge of that passion is by starting their own business,” according to Forbes.

Promote access to fellowships and internships

Define HBCU ecosystem to identify, inform and align partners for collaborative capacity building Expand online community engagement through community-oriented activities and events

Train intrapreneurs, company managers who promote innovation, and develop curriculum

Foster development of businesses through the entrepreneurial venture studio model

The center is tapping into the wave of entrepreneurship and innovation that is sweeping HBCU campuses among students and recent graduates, who fall in the category of Gen Z, comprising people born

“We seek to change the story of entrepreneurship for years to come. Being able to wake up each day, knowing that you created something worthwhile for the next generation is a goal for CIE,” said Devon Corbin, director, Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, UNCF.

“We want to create a space that supports freedom of choice. A space to create, with no pressure of fully launching businesses. We also want to create a space to sustain, where creators can ideate their goals to fully launch ventures that will scale and grow,” said Corbin.

The UNCF Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is tapping into the trend and providing the necessary support to help student innovators, especially those students of color who may not have had exposure or resources, to achieve business success.

To learn more about UNCF’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, contact cie@uncf.org.

Opportunity Fund Launches Fund 2 to Continue Investing in Outstanding Black and Latinx Founders

(Black PR Wire) With the launch of the $100 million SB Opportunity Fund in June 2020, SoftBank Group (SoftBank) made an unprecedented commitment to invest in founders who have been marginalized and overlooked by venture capital. In less than three years, SoftBank successfully incubated the Opportunity Fund and deployed the initial $100 million into 75 Black- and Latinx-led companies. In addition, two of SoftBank Group’s core growth funds— Vision Fund 2 and the Latin America Fund—separately invested nearly $600 million in Opportunity Fund portfolio companies, for a total of nearly $700 million invested across SoftBank’s funds.

Ahead of the third anniversary of the fund, the Opportunity Fund is formally changing its name to Open Opportunity Fund, which symbolizes an evolution to open access to other LPs and organizations to invest in the fund. Open Opportunity Fund also announces the launch of Fund 2, with a $150 million target.

Paul Judge, Ph.D, will assume leadership of the fund as Chairman after serving as a Founding Investment Committee member. Judge and affiliated entities have entered into an agreement to acquire an ownership stake and become co-owners of the Open Opportunity Fund. This exemplifies diverse participation at

all levels: ownership, management, team, and portfolio. Fund 2 will deploy the same strategy of investing in outstanding Black- and Latinx-founded companies.

SoftBank remains committed to building a community of diverse founders and continues to support the fund as the founding LP and an investor in Fund 2.

The Open Opportunity Fund team has been working together for nearly three years and includes Chad Harris, Dami Osunsanya, and Jeff Asiedu.

“SoftBank proved that the Opportunity Fund model works for increasing access to capital for founders who have been traditionally overlooked, and we remain committed to the fund and its mission,” said Brett Rochkind, Managing Partner of SoftBank Investment Advisors. “Paul Judge is a seasoned leader strongly positioned to take the Fund into its next chapter as we invite new partners to join SoftBank in our commitment.”

“I applaud SoftBank’s commitment to supporting diverse founders by creating this fund almost three years ago and continuing to invest in it,” Judge said. “Diverse founders have an unwavering spirit and inge-

nuity that allows their unique perspective to successfully solve problems and build meaningful companies. I am excited to welcome new partners to join us in this work of supporting diverse founders.”

The Open Opportunity Fund portfolio includes Atomic, Brex, Career Karma, Cityblock Health, Eight Sleep, Esusu, Greenwood, Lendtable, Mayvenn, Paystand, PlayVS, Praxis Labs, QuickNode, Squire, and Subject. The fund has had seven exits

BlackPRWire

BlackPRWire

Geoffrey Good’s Hex Collection Explores the Beauty of Sacred Geometry

New York, NY -- The potential for life is a prominent symbol of the familiar and ancient hexagon. An awe-inspiring shape throughout nature, its symmetrical six sides create balance and harmony: connecting angles, edges, and vertices in a variety of combinations. A classic shape, the hexagon is strong—it fills the area given with no wasted space and holds much weight. This attribute of strength has made the hexagon a staple for the construction of perfect vessels. An homage to the hexagon, its geometric sublimity has inspired the Geoffrey Good Hex Collection.

Fine Jewelry Designer and Goldsmith, Geoffrey Good, says, “The hexagon is prevalent in the natural world in things such as crystal structures, yet also used extensively in the man-made industrial world. I can’t think of a better example of form and function meeting perfectly.”

The Hex Collection takes inspiration from classic diamond looks, modifying and reimagining to incorporate and celebrate the hexagon shape. The Hex Bevel Diamond Pendant Necklace has a 1 ct. round diamond set within a hexagon-shaped setting, featuring 24 diamonds in a halo, and an 18 in. chain with a lobster clasp is available in either 18K yellow gold or platinum. It offers an unexpected edginess to the classic pendant necklace. The Hex Bevel Diamond Studs complement the pendant necklace, as a timeless staple meeting modern design. With an 8 mm width, each half carat center diamond of each earring is outlined with 18 smaller diamonds, in a bevel set hexagon, approximating 1.21 cts. for the pair, available in either 18K yellow gold or platinum. The Hex Bevel Stacking Rings have a hexagon shape, with diamond pave set along the side of the rings. Comfortable for everyday wear, the higher the stack, the more provocative the look. One ring can be worn solo, or multiple rings can be piled, depending on one’s mood.

Reinterpreting space to create minimalist luxury, Geoffrey Good developed Hex Collection jewels with heft— hexagonal cross-section pieces, with a bezel set diamond within an open hex end shape. Unisex and sexy, the rings are luxurious and inviting. The Original Hex Stacking Ring has an angled notch with 1.5 mm of fine diamonds, three slightly separated bars, and is 2.5 mm width, available in either

18K yellow gold or platinum. Good’s modified ring celebrates the unification of the hexagon’s creation and perfection through its geometric features. The Hex Bar Eternity Band Narrow (7mm) consists of hex bars forged together with 44 fine diamonds on each mitered end, and is available in either 18K yellow gold or platinum. The Hex Bar Eternity Band Wide (14mm) also consists of hex bars forged together with 44 fine diamonds on each mitered end, and is available in 18K yellow gold or platinum. Both eternity bands are a symbol of strength, with hexagon bars encircling the finger. The Hex Bar Diamond Bracelet has an elongated hex bar that elegantly envelopes the wrist, spring-loaded on the side, featuring a single diamond on each terminal. From the office to a cocktail party, Hex is innovative, while still wearable and comfortable.

“From a philosophical perspective the six sides of the hexagon represent perfection, symbolizing divine power, wisdom, majesty, love, mercy, and justice. Jewelers are always chasing that ever elusive (and frankly unattainable) idea of perfection. The hexagon is also an impossible shape to draw freehand perfectly, which is a small but constant lesson in humility,” says Geoffrey Good.

The Hex Collection embodies the strength and structure of the hexagon with contemporary design. As a symbol of balance and harmony, the pieces are perfect for a commitment or wedding jewelry, as for celebrating a milestone or oneself. Timeless and true, the Hex Collection allows for individuality to meet luxury.

Geoffrey’s eclectic aesthetic fuses rebellious creativity with unparalleled craftsmanship; discovery is balanced by respect for the past and the legacy of his classical training. Dedicating years on Madison Avenue to refine his skills, Geoffrey Good created jewelry for celebrated firms and institutions, before founding his own workshop. The atelier develops commissions for award shows, collaborates with fashion designers, partners on one-of-a-kind private clients, and has signature collections featured nationally in select retailers. Geoffrey Good’s vibrant flagship is located downtown, in the art scene destination of Hudson, New York.

To learn more about Geoffrey Good, call 212-625-1656 or visit https://www.geoffreygood.com/.

With

“Together

We Shine,” Coppertone and GirlTrek Partner to Promote Sun Safety and Wellness for Black Women

New Initiative advances

(Black PR Wire) Stamford, CT – Coppertone, a trusted name in sun protection, is proud to announce, “Together We Shine,” a sun health literacy and engagement program designed to meet the needs of multicultural consumers. Coppertone is partnering with GirlTrek, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting health and wellness through walking for Black women and girls. Together, they will promote a ‘wellness while walking’ message, improving sun safety and skin health awareness, while also advocating for physical activity in Black communities.

With a shared commitment to community empowerment and wellness, “Together We Shine” will focus on increasing awareness and education around the importance of sun protection for Black women who are at risk of developing sun damage and skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, Black patients are more than 3x as likely to be diagnosed with melanoma at a late stage than non-Hispanic white patients. The partnership will also encourage and support outdoor physical activity through the GirlTrek movement, which promotes walking as a simple, accessible form of exercise that can improve overall health and well-being.

“We’re thrilled to partner with GirlTrek at the start of sun season to raise awareness among Black women about the importance of sun protection,” said Rachael Field, Senior Brand Manager, Coppertone. “By offering new Every Tone sunscreen and dermatological health resources, we hope to have a positive impact on the journey of Black women’s health.”

GirlTrek Co-Founder Vanessa Garrison added, “We’re excited to see our community of Black women and girls continue to embrace sunscreen use as they’ll, in turn, influence others to adopt this healthy habit. We appreciate Coppertone’s support which will allow us to provide resources and education to our community around sun safety and physical activity, two critical areas.”

Coppertone is committed to designing inclusive, innovative products that meet a wide range of needs so that everyone can feel encouraged to seize the sun and see why It’s Great Outdoors. “Together We Shine” pro motes sun safety in multicultural communities in partnership with non-profit organizations who share Coppertone’s mission and vision. For more information, please visit www.coppertone.com.

Geoffrey Good

Coppertone’s mission of inclusivity so everyone can seize the sun

Biden-Harris Administration Takes Action to Help Schools Deliver Critical Health Care Services to Millions of Students

On the Mental Health Awareness Day of Action, the Biden-Harris Administration took bold action to make it easier for schools to provide critical health care services, especially mental health services, for millions of students across the nation. These three significant actions support President Biden’s comprehensive national mental health strategy and deliver on his commitment to tackle the nation’s mental health crisis as part of his Unity Agenda. Through a series of new announcements from the U.S. Departments of Education (ED) and Health and Human Services (HHS), the Administration is continuing to take a whole-of-government approach to meet families where they are and ensure that children have access to the health care they need – especially mental health services.

Specifically, ED is proposing a new rule that would streamline Medicaid billing permissions for students with disabilities. ED predicts of the 500,000 new students who are found eligible under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part B each year, nearly 300,000 are likely to be eligible for Medicaid and impacted by this rule. HHS is issuing new guidance to make it easier for schools to bill Medicaid. HHS also is approving requests from New Mexico and Oregon to expand health care services that schools can deliver to Medicaid enrolled students.

IDEA Act Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

ED is releasing a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking under IDEA that would streamline consent provisions when billing for Medicaid services provided through a student’s individualized education program (IEP). This would result in a uniform process applicable to all Medicaid enrolled children, regardless of disability.

Many children with disabilities receiving services under the IDEA are also enrolled in Medicaid either due to their disability status and/or based on their family income. Children with disabilities and are more likely to have low income, and those covered by Medicaid are more likely to have greater health care needs than those who are covered by private insurance. Further, the COVID-19 pandemic reduced access to critical services for children with disabilities and other vulnerable populations. To meet the Administration’s goal of increasing access to health and mental health services, and in fulfillment of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) provision of expanding access to crucial school-based services for mental health and other care needs, it is crucial to remove barriers for schools so they can more easily provide Medicaid covered services to their students enrolled in Medicaid..

Importantly, the proposed changes announced today do not alter any of the critical parental consent provisions required by IDEA nor do they impact the parental consent obligations under the Family Educational Records and Privacy Act (FERPA). Additionally, the proposed rule does not alter the requirement that IEP services must be delivered at no cost to the child’s family, the requirement that IEP services cannot diminish other Medicaid-reimbursable services, nor Medicaid’s position as payor of first resort for IEP and Individualized Family Service Plan services. Rather, this regulatory change would help cut unnecessary red tape that schools and districts face in billing Medicaid and meet their obligations to ensure students with disabilities receive a free, appropriate public education in accordance with their IEP.

Guide to Expand School-Based Services for Millions of Students

HHS, through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is releasing a comprehensive guide for Medicaid school-based services to make it easier for schools to deliver and receive payment for health care services to millions of eligible students. Developed in consultation with ED, the Comprehensive Guide to Medicaid Services and Administrative Claiming represents an important part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s implementation of the BSCA.

Medicaid and CHIP cover more than half of all children in this country. That’s more than 41 million children spending over 30 hours weekly in school during most of the year. This comprehensive policy guide helps states and schools leverage Medicaid and CHIP and offers a roadmap of how they can build a bridge between education and health care, including mental health care, to support children enrolled in these programs and help them thrive.

The guide clarifies, consolidates, and expands on a wealth of CMS guidance on how schools can receive payment for providing care for Medicaid- and CHIP-enrolled students, and how states can ease the administrative burden on school-based health providers to promote their participation in Medicaid and CHIP while meeting federal statutory and regulatory requirements. This includes helping states and schools operationalize:

How payments can be made for school-based services under Medicaid and CHIP;

How states can simplify billing for school-based services, including in rural and small or under-resourced communities, where care may be particularly challenging.

Examples of approved methods that state agencies have used to pay for covered services; and

How to enroll qualified health care providers to participate in Medicaid and furnish services within school settings.

In the months to come, CMS plans to release more resources to help ensure states can optimize children’s access to school-based services. As outlined by BSCA, these resources include $50 million in grant opportunities and a school-based services technical assistance center, in partnership with ED. For more information on the guide, visit Medicaid.gov.

These announcements collectively are part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to addressing the nation’s mental health crisis by providing more school-based resources and supports to help address students’ mental health needs. This announcement comes on the heels of ED’s announcement earlier this week on the latest tranche of awards to train school-based mental health professionals through the Mental Health Service Professionals demonstration program, which provided another nearly $100 million in awards as part of an overall appropriation of $1 billion in BSCA for school-based mental health services and supports.

The Pattis Family Foundation and the Newberry Library Announce 2023 Chicago Book Award Recipient

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- The Newberry Library and The Pattis Family Foundation are pleased to announce the winner of the second annual $25,000 Pattis Family Foundation Chicago Book Award. Toya Wolfe, author of Last Summer on State Street, will receive the award, which celebrates works that transform public understanding of Chicago, its history, and its people.

“Toya Wolfe’s debut novel is an endearing, memorable, and page-turning work with broad appeal and deep ‘Chicago heart,’” said Daniel Greene, former President and Librarian of the Newberry and Pattis Award jury member. “Set during an important turning point in the history of public housing in Chicago, Last Summer on State Street is a compelling story of friendship, community, and home.”

“It is such an incredible blessing to receive the Pattis Family Foundation Chicago Book Award,” said Toya Wolfe. “Last Summer on State Street is my debut novel, and to win a prestigious award for my first literary endeavor is wildly affirming and will support me as I begin writing a new novel and TV pilots. I am so grateful to The Pattis Family Foundation and the Newberry Library for establishing this award; on behalf of Chicago writers, thank you for all the ways in which you lift us up and cheer us on!”

The Pattis Family Foundation Chicago Book Award is open to writers working in a variety of genres, including history, biography, social sciences, poetry, drama, graphic novels, and fiction—all relating to Chicago. Dawn Turner received the inaugural Pattis Award in 2022 for Three Girls from Bronzeville.

In addition to awarding Toya Wolfe, the juried panel also recognizes Heather Hendershot as the shortlist award recipient for authoring When the News Broke: Chicago 1968 and the Polarizing of America. Hendershot will receive an award of $2,500.

Mark and Lisa Pattis of The Pattis Family Foundation commented: “The purpose of our series of book awards is to shine a spotlight on exemplary books and to enhance

public understanding of various subject matters. We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Newberry Library in order to engage Chicagoans with authors and works that transform understanding of our city, its history, and its people. The selection of Toya Wolfe’s poignant debut novel, Last Summer on State Street, is a terrific fit with the prize’s goal. Our congratulations to Toya and our gratitude to the Newberry and the committee members.”

The presentation of the 2023 Pattis Family Foundation Chicago Book Award takes place at a free, public event

Chicago Housing Authority. She and two other girls from the housing project form a tentative trio and carve out for themselves a simple life of double Dutch and innocence. As their beloved neighborhood falls down around them, so too do their friendships and the structures of their families. Decades later, as she remembers that fateful summer — just before her home was demolished, her life uprooted, and community forever changed—Fe Fe tries to make sense of the grief and fraught bonds that still haunt her and attempts to reclaim the love that never left.

Profound, reverent, and uplifting, Last Summer on State Street explores the risk of connection against the backdrop of racist institutions, the restorative power of knowing and claiming one’s own past, and those defining relationships which form the heartbeat of our lives. Interweaving moments of reckoning and sustaining grace, debut author Toya Wolfe has crafted an era-defining story of finding a home—both in one’s history and in one’s self.

at the Newberry Library on Saturday, July 15, 2023. Toya Wolfe will receive the award and discuss Last Summer on State Street with Gail Kern Paster, Interim President and Librarian at the Newberry. The event will also serve as a celebration of the power of storytelling and Chicago, featuring a roster of speakers whose work in the city strives to change our communities for the better.

Felicia “Fe Fe” Stevens lives with her loving mother and older brother in Chicago’s Robert Taylor Homes. It’s the summer of 1999, and her high-rise is to be torn down by the

The Newberry Library—free and open to the public—fosters a deeper understanding of our world by inspiring research and learning in the humanities and encouraging conversations about ideas that matter to diverse audiences. The Newberry’s extensive collection includes maps, city directories, printed histories, newspapers and periodicals, and archival materials documenting business, journalism, publishing, activism, and the arts across Chicago and the Midwest. Every year, thousands of writers, artists, scholars, teachers, and students visit the Newberry, contributing to its diverse community of learning.

With a history originating from book and magazine publishing, The Pattis Family Foundation actively supports programs that elevate the value of the written word and intellectual inquiry. In addition, The Pattis Family Foundation supports various health, educational, and cultural initiatives as well as programs that help bridge the opportunity gap for talented students with limited financial resources.

BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® Creator Beverly Bond Introduces BLACK GIRLS BOND®

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Renowned founder and CEO of BLACK GIRLS ROCK!®, Beverly Bond, heralds a new era with the grand unveiling of BLACK GIRLS BOND®, an innovative daily digital publication curated for audacious, wellness-conscious, fashion-forward, stylish, enterprising women of color.

As Bond nears the conclusion of her three-year development deal with Black Entertainment Television (BET), she is poised to catapult her illustrious BLACK GIRLS ROCK! brand into a new digital media powerhouse with the launch of this venture that aims to broaden avenues for the visibility of Black women. BLACK GIRLS BOND® is a digital oasis, delivering content ranging from skincare and beauty to health and wellness, style trends, business insights, technological breakthroughs, and pop-culture news. The online hub also boasts captivating digital covers, fashion spreads, and in-depth profiles of game-changing women. Monthly features on Black Hollywood, Black Girl Magic and the entertainment business is where the ‘BOND’ perspective truly shines, with coverage and con-

versations on representation both on-screen and behind the scenes. The recurring ‘More Black, More Beautiful’ cover issue is a testament to the trailblazing Black women shattering boundaries and making a difference in diverse fields. BLACK GIRLS BOND® also features weekly horoscopes, monthly playlists, and signature podcasts that include Bread & Bond, a dinner and conversation series featuring inspirational women sharing stories, and Who Rocks Next? spotlighting emerging talent across disciplines.

“The underrepresentation of Black women in media ownership contributes to a scarcity of diverse experiences and perspectives of Black women across digital and broadcast mediums,” said Beverly Bond. “Having personally witnessed the substantial impact that representation can make, I am thrilled to inaugurate a digital media publication that provides a daily trove of informative and aspirational content that caters to the multifaceted lifestyles of our readers, providing them with the resources necessary to forge balanced and fulfilling lives. I am equally thrilled to harness my vast experience and expertise in fashion, music, and entertainment to build this space. As we launch BLACK GIRLS BOND®, we’re joining an

escalating wave of voices that are magnifying the need for Black-owned and black women-owned media. I feel humbled and privileged to be among those leading this critical evolution.”

BLACK GIRLS BOND® stands proudly as an integral component of the flagship BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® brand carrying forward the esteemed legacy of the movement by nurturing our established community while championing a new generation of dynamic and driven women of color. BLACK GIRLS ROCK!’s expansive portfolio also includes the annual BGR!FEST, The BGR! FILM FESTIVAL, and the critically acclaimed, highly anticipated BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® AWARDS which is set to make a triumphant return in March 2024 during the International Women’s Day Weekend in Washington DC. This prestigious awards show will be broadcasted in collaboration with an exciting new media distribution partner (to be announced) and showcased on the eagerly awaited BGR!TV streaming Network.

BLACK GIRLS BOND® is poised to provide advertisers with fully integrated 360-degree media solutions and has enlisted ad network and technology company Hero Media. ackgirlsbond.com and stay connected with BLACK GIRLS BOND® on social media to receive updates, stories, and exclusive event announcements: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn.

To learn more about BLACK GIRLS BOND visit: https://blackgirlsbond.com/about-us/

Toya Wolfe, Pattis Award Winner for Last Summer on State Street. The Newberry Library.

BlackGirlsBond.com May 2023 cover.

Black Girls Rock!.

ducts foreclosure sales. MCCALLA RAYMER

LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC Plaintiff's Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL, 60602. Tel No. (312) 346-9088. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312)

236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. MCCALLA RAYMER

LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago IL, 60602 312-3469088 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 20-05347IL_615364 Attorney Code.

61256 Case Number: 15 CH 04451 TJSC#: 43-

2107 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 15 CH 04451 I3221574

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY

DIVISION QUICKEN LOANS, LLC FORMERLY

KNOWN AS (FKA) QUICKEN LOANS INC.; Plaintiff, vs. MILKICA TADIC; STIV TADIC; UNIT-

ED STATES OF AMERICA; UNKNOWN OWN-

ERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 19 CH 15080 NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty

Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, July 10, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 26-07-111024-0000. Commonly known as 9534 S. Houston Avenue, Chicago, IL 60617. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection For information call Ms. Emilia Weborg at Plaintiff's Attorney, Potestivo & Associates, P.C., 251 Diversion Street, Rochester, Michigan 48307. (248) 853-4400 ext 1200. 111909 ADC INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3221598

LEGAL NOTICE

CLASSIFIED

Don’t Let Battery Chargers Ignite a Disaster: Top Fire Prevention Tips

such as micromobility devices (scooters and ebikes), plug them directly into the electrical receptacle, not through multiplug adaptors or extension cords.

Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, including the recommended charge time. This will increase the safety and performance of your battery.

Location, Location, Location: When it comes to safety, where you use a lithium-ion battery device or charger is extremely important.

Because these batteries can pose a significant fire risk, it is crucial that they aren’t located in front of an exit or escape route. If the battery is mishandled or exposed to extreme conditions and a fire erupts, you will need an unobstructed escape route.

Store batteries in a cool, dry environment to maintain their performance and safety. It is recommended to store batteries indoors, away from direct sunlight, excess heat, combustibles and potentially flammable substances.

Follow Maintenance Guidelines:

Some common maintenance tips include:

• Regularly inspecting the battery and charger for visible damage

• Routinely checking the battery’s charge status

• Observing and noting the runtime of your battery (and any changes in this time)

• Disconnecting the battery from the charger once it reaches full capacity.

Resources for Fire Prevention

Lithium-ion battery fires can start in a matter of seconds; it’s important to use them safely. The Code Council’s Building Safety Month website has several resources to help you understand and implement key fire prevention measures and protect your home or business. Access these resources by visiting iccsafe.org.

(StatePoint) According to the National Fire Protection Association, local U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1.35 million fires in 2021 – an average of every 23 seconds. These fires resulted in 3,800 civilian deaths and 14,700 reported civilian injuries, but the devastation didn’t stop there. They also resulted in an estimated $15.9 billion in property damage loss.

Fires can affect not just the health and safety of family, friends and community, but also take a major financial toll on homeowners and businesses. The International Code Council’s 2023 Building Safety Month campaign focuses on general building safety awareness, including how to recognize and practice fire prevention strategies and be aware of potential risks in your home or business.

Potential Dangers of Lithium-Ion Batteries and Chargers

Over the years, lithium-ion batteries and chargers have caused many fires with sometimes devastating consequences. Found within common household products such as electronic toys, small and large appliances, headphones, cellphones, laptops and more, their popularity has grown thanks to their high-energy density and longer lifespan. But with this growth comes the need to learn how to properly handle these products.

Below are actionable steps and fire prevention tips from Beth Tubbs, chief fire protection engineer for the Code Council, to help ensure lithium-ion batteries and chargers are used and stored safely. These are general safety tips, so you will need to refer to each device’s owner manual for specific safety and maintenance instructions.

Buyer Beware: Only purchase an appliance or device with a lithium-ion battery and charger from reputable manufacturers to ensure it’s designed, manufactured, tested and maintained according to applicable safety standards. This is a critical first step in battery fire prevention. Use an Approved Battery Charger, Correctly: When charging a lithium-ion battery, use a proper charger that is manufacturerapproved or listed as acceptable on the device. Lithium-ion batteries are highly sensitive to charging conditions and using an incorrect charger, or using it incorrectly, can result in the battery overcharging. When a battery overcharges, it can overheat, catch fire and, in the worst-case scenario, explode. Never charge lithium-ion batteries when you aren’t home to supervise it. If a potentially dangerous situation does arise, you can act quickly to rectify it by unplugging the battery, using a portable fire extinguisher or calling your local fire department for help. When charging appliances,

EDUCATION

Top Tips to Win a College Scholarship

(StatePoint) More than half of American families used scholarships to pay for college last year. From merit-based to artistic-focused, there are a variety of awards available.

High school senior Grace Vaughn of Trinity, Florida, knows how to successfully secure a college scholarship. After winning the $10,000 dress grand prize in Duck brand’s Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest in 2022, Vaughn is sharing helpful tips to increase students’ odds of earning funds for college:

Research, research, research

Search databases and websites to discover award options that may be new to you. Scholarships.com, FastWeb and Bold.org are resources to help narrow down opportunities that match your interests and unique talents. Vaughn also encourages students to leverage social media, where she discovered the Stuck at Prom contest, which challenges teens to create Duck Tape prom creations for a chance to win cash scholarships.

In addition to researching national opportunities, check in with your school counselor and teachers to learn about any local or regional scholarships that are offered through the school or other nearby organizations.

Apply early and often

Federal Student Aid recommends searching for scholarships during the summer between your junior and senior year, but some awards are open to teens as young as 14. Vaughn says entering Stuck at Prom early on in high school gave her an edge on the competition. When she wasn’t selected as a finalist her sophomore year, Vaughn submitted for the contest again as a junior and went on to win the $10,000 dress grand prize.

“When I began working on my entry in 2022, I already knew how to construct the dress from Duck Tape, so I went into the process with confidence,” Vaughn explains. If you have the time and energy, she suggests applying for multiple awards to increase your chances of securing funds for school.

Leverage your creative side

Not all programs are focused on academics and athletics, so flex your creative side to win scholarships that will reward artistic abilities in drawing, painting, music and more. Beginning at an early age, Vaughn excelled at visual arts and design, which is how she knew Stuck at Prom was a perfect fit for her.

“Creative awards programs are a good outlet for students to show off their talents outside of typical schoolwork,” Vaughn says. “Even if you aren’t crafty, scholarship applications could be a chance for you to try something new.”

Make scholarships a priority

Vaughn spent 143 hours crafting her prom dress made from Duck Tape to enter Stuck at Prom. While not all scholarship program submissions will take 143 hours or require making Duck Tape attire, Vaughn says it’s important to block off areas on your calendar so you can balance busy school schedules and extracurricular activities along with applications—ensuring there’s enough time to work on a polished entry, whether it’s creating a piece of art or writing an essay. While applying for scholarships is time consuming, it can make a huge impact when it comes to paying for college. Vaughn notes, “It takes commitment and drive to apply for scholarships, but the results are worth it.”

Reputable manufacturers provide instructions on how to best maintain the performance and safety of their batteries, often found online or in the device or appliance’s maintenance guide.

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